Ottawa residents are being alerted to a potential public safety concern after police issued a formal warning about a high-risk offender now residing in the Rideau-Vanier neighborhood.
Police Warning Details
The Ottawa Police Service has confirmed that Christopher Watts, 64, is currently living in the Rideau-Vanier area. Authorities have classified him as posing a significant risk of reoffending or violating the conditions of his release.
This public notification was officially released on November 12, 2025, at 2:01 PM EST, following standard police protocol for high-risk cases. The warning aims to keep community members informed and vigilant while police continue to monitor the situation.
Community Safety Measures
While police have not disclosed specific details about Watts' criminal history or the nature of his previous offenses, they emphasize that the public notification is part of their standard procedure when dealing with individuals assessed as high-risk.
Residents in the Rideau-Vanier area and surrounding neighborhoods are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately. The police statement indicates they believe Watts presents a genuine concern for community safety.
Ongoing Police Monitoring
Law enforcement officials have assured the public that they are actively monitoring the situation and taking appropriate measures to manage the risk. The decision to issue a public warning reflects their assessment that community awareness serves as an important layer of public protection.
Police have not indicated any specific restrictions on Watts' movements or activities beyond standard conditions that typically apply to high-risk offenders. However, they maintain that his presence in the community warrants heightened awareness from residents.
The Ottawa Police Service continues to work with community partners and monitoring systems to ensure public safety while balancing the legal rights of the individual involved.
